Some home remedies can relieve minor health issues, especially if it is inconvenient to run to the pharmacy. These remedies are sometimes inexpensive and can be an effective alternative to some prescription or over-the-counter drugs. What’s great is that some of these remedies might be in your kitchen cupboard or bathroom cabinet.

Five home remedies worth trying.

Vicks VapoRub

Toe fungus (onychomycosis) symptoms include a brown, white or yellow toenail discolouration that can spread, causing the nails to crack or thicken. There might be pain or discomfort and difficulty cutting the nail. While prescription oral antifungals can be effective, some cause unpleasant side effects like dizziness, nausea, jaundice, or skin problems.

Vicks VapoRub is a topical ointment that contains eucalyptus oil and camphor. The salve is designed for cough suppression but might help treat toenail fungus, according to a study done in 2011 by the Journal of the American Board of Family Medicine. If you use Vicks to treat toe fungus, apply a small amount to the affected area once daily.

Ginger

Ginger is typically used in meals, baking and drink recipes because of its spicy flavour and distinct odour. It has many nourishing benefits, making it a sought-after spice for treating sore throat, colds, nausea, diarrhoea, vomiting, or stomach ache. Ginger contains several antioxidants that allow it to treat some anti-inflammatory conditions effectively. You can grate it into tea or steep freshly grated ginger in boiling water. Then, add honey for a warm and comforting taste.

Chicken soup

Chicken soup is often recommended for people fighting a cold, but does it work? Hot chicken soup might ease cold symptoms and help eliminate your cold sooner. Traditional chicken soup can curb swelling and clear nasal fluids, preventing dehydration. Although soup helps with the cold, the relief can be short-lived, so ensure you have other cold medication handy.

Sex

Sexual activity provides significant psychological benefits, including boosting confidence, reduced risk of heart disease, improved mental alertness, and stress relief. Several anecdotal references claim masturbation and sex leading to orgasm may help relieve a migraine or cluster headache in some people. However, sexual activity while having a headache might exacerbate the pain for others.

Hot bath

A hot bath can elevate your mood and allow your body to relax. An hour-long bath can relieve muscle pain, help lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of a heart attack, and improve blood sugar control. Stretching and moving in the water provides a low-impact workout that can help reduce pain. You can add Epsom salt to relieve muscle soreness and stress. Listening to meditation music or audio can help with mindfulness during your bath.

What else should you know?

Home remedies should not replace prescribed medication aimed at treating severe health conditions. Always consult a doctor or healthcare practitioner for guidance in managing serious illnesses.

Sources: Harvard Health, Healthline, The Conversation, and Science Direct.